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In
1906 a group of golf enthusiasts consisting of mainly railway
workers on the Northside of Glasgow leased 53 Hectares of land
in the Kenmure area of Bishopbriggs a large part of which is adjacent
to the Forth & Clyde Canal. The golf course lies within the
boundaries of original Kenmure Estate purchased by Charles Stirling
(a West India trader) in 1806. A significant element of "policy"
woodland broad-leafed species oak, ash, beech etc established
at that time still remains today. The Bishopbriggs burn which
meanders through the course all adds to an enjoyable and challenging
golfing experience.
It seems that they commissioned the renowned golf course architect
James Braid in October of that year to design a number of the
9 holes of a parkland course to be built and the golf course was
opened in 1907 and extended to 18 holes in 1911. However, the
prudent men of the town and with typical Scottish reserve, built
the Clubhouse in the style of a family home. Just in case the
golf course was not a success they could then recoup their investment
by selling the "house" or even make a tidy profit.
Fortunately by the 1920s and 30s the Golf Club was very successful
and with Members subscriptions at around 7/6d per annum was very
popular with local residents but, no Golf on Sundays until the
late 30s. When playing then, Members had to wear their Club badge
and lo and behold any Member spotted on the course without it.
Up until 1930 sheep grazed the course with the greens cut by hand
with the help of horse drawn cutters used a few times during the
summer to keep the rough in check. 1930 saw the first tractor
drawn cutting machines in action much (I imagine) to the delight
of Members and greens staff alike. In the 40s & 50s the course
was a popular venue during the day for many music hall artistes
appearing at the Empire and other theatres in Glasgow with a wide
range of playing abilities and artistic temperaments.
Their visits were always very popular with the "juniors"
who found lots of good balls and the occasional golf club on the
course after the "artistes" attempts at the game of
golf.
The Members purchased the Golf Course lease in 1991 and a significant
investment has since been undertaken to enhance many areas of
the Golf Course and its surrounds.
The modern course measures 6042 yards of parkland with tree lined
fairways and excellent greens. A recent investment of £300000
in drainage and course improvement with Sportscotland, R&A
and Club members assistance has added signicantly to the layout
and features of the golf course.
A number of holes have good views of both the Campsie Fells and
wetlands adjacent to Possil Loch, a wild life site of special
interest.
The Clubhouse was refurbished in 1997 and provides a wide choice
of food ranging from the traditional golfers fayre to fine dining
and is a popular venue for both Members and visitors alike.
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